#yes the elven script is of my own design | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

shardweavers · 4 years ago

Text

Chapter Four - Pray Return to the First

"I implore you: allow me to join you beyond the rift!"

"G'raha," came the response; hesitant and caring, "It's very dangerous. We can't promise you'll be safe. Why would you risk such a journey with us?"

"I have something I wish to find. An answer," he trailed off as he reached up to his right eye; its ruby color perfectly matched his hair. "Truthfully... the more I learn of the Crystal Tower, the less I am myself. I feel consumed with remembering... something. Something ancient, but ever so important. A-And I know... somehow... my answers will be in there; with Unei and Doga."

"We'll certainly rescue them, along with Nero."

"I know you will," the Sharlayan Miqo'te smiled, then flicked his tail. "I've only known you all a short time, but you've inspired a great change in me. I've seen it in others too," he fidgeted slightly, then crossed his arms over his chest. "I just want to finish what's been started. I must learn the truth that history hides from me. I would see this journey--our journey--through to the very end with mine own two eyes. I shan't cause you any worry in the World of Darkness."

"We'll protect you, G'raha," the response was warm, and caring, "We'll make sure you find whatever it is that you need to find, and make it home with us."

He smiled at their words, then wiggled his ears and flicked his tail as he put a hand on his hip triumphantly; as confident and prideful as he was, their words always managed to stir something within him. He believed everything they said to him, and knew he could entrust them with just about anything.

THUD!

The Crystal Exarch jumped, his ears perked straight up and his tail fluffed beneath his robes. His ruby eyes opened wide, then looked around for the source of the sudden noise.

"Ah! My Lord, I'm terribly sorry," Lyna jumped, her long ears twitched slightly as she quickly saluted.

"L-Lyna, what are," the Exarch trailed off, then shook his head. He saw the pile of books that had fallen over from his desk; the Viis must have bumped them when she leaned over to check on him.

"I came to check on you, and saw you were asleep at your desk. It's nearly mid-day," she explained, but got no further. The Exarch stood up swiftly at her last words, then spoke quickly.

"Mid-day?! I slept too long, I still have preparations to make," the Miqo'te turned to grab his staff from its resting place against the wall. "Lyna, notify the Master of Suites that our Warriors of Darkness will be staying with us again," he put his staff on his back, then paused. "Where is Beq Lugg? They were reading with me when I fell asleep," his expression was slightly embarrassed, but he looked to the Viis Captain expectantly.

She had saluted at his order, then paused to think, "I didn't see them when I came in, perhaps they went to market for something?" She tilted her head slightly. He looked thoughtful at her suggestion. After a moment of silence, she spoke up once more, "My Lord, is there aught else?"

"Do you think they would prefer sandwiches or pastries with tea this afternoon...?" The Exarch stared off to the side, at the few tomes still on his desk. Lyna blinked, then chuckled. He blushed slightly, then stepped around the desk, "Forgive me, Lyna, I'd like to ask you to pick up the tomes a bit. I must gather what I can for our meeting once they've arrived," he smiled at the Viis.

She nodded to his request, then smiled back, "Go, My Lord, make ready for their arrival. I will pick up the books I knocked over, then relay your message to the Manager."

"Ah, thank you, Lyna," his ears perked straight up, then he turned to hurry off to the Markets. She was left alone quickly, and sighed towards the door.

"You don't hide your excitement very well," she smiled as she knelt down to pick up the books, "I've been rather happy seeing you like this, though." She placed some of the books on the desk, then reached for the last few. One was open beside the desk. It looked to be fresh ink on the page, as some of it had been smudged in the fall to the floor. The Viis recognized the Exarch's handwriting, and realized that she could read the strange script it was written in. He'd taught her how to read through his books; most of which were written in various scripts; this looked like what he had called 'Eorzean', the most common script in his books. Lyna picked up the book carefully, then began to read before she had a thought that perhaps she shouldn't.

Observer's Log

The Scions of the Seventh Dawn remain trapped here on the First. Despite my best efforts, I have hit another wall. The Warriors have once more returned to the Source. Beq Lugg and I have been scouring through Allagan history and research in the Tower Library. There have been some promising discoveries.

I would be lying if I said I wasn't enjoying this just a little, despite the reason for it. It has been quite a long time since I have done this sort of research. Not since I was granted the title of Archon have I felt so involved in my work. I can recall the first days I had access to the forbidden tomes. I got lost reading as much as I could. I wonder if I feared losing access as I spent days alone in there, and had to be dragged back to my room. When I awoke, I was quite harshly scolded by Krile.

Enough of the past. What Beq Lugg and I have come to agree upon is that my Allagan heritage may be the key to returning the Scions home safely. We believe if we can successfully infuse the white auracite vessels with my blood, it may allow the safe transference of soul and mind back to their bodies on the Source.

I am happy we prevented the 8th Umbral Calamity that claimed the lives of the Warriors of Light, and necessitated my awakening to undo... but I would also be lying if I said I did not wish to go with them at all. Ever since I once more laid my eyes upon them, my heart has ached to pass through the portal beside them whenever they leave.

Perhaps, when the time comes, I might infuse a 6th vessel. I worry, though, is it okay for me to feel this selfish...? It's almost as if my very soul aches to return home, in a way I have never felt before. I must think on this, for the only way to do so would be to entrust everything to the Warriors my friends once again.

There was an ink smudge at the bottom, perhaps from where he'd fallen asleep while writing. Lyna felt sad as she realized what this said. She flipped only a single page back to find his notes on seeking out Beq Lugg in the Grand Cosmos, and how he was "nervous, but excited to join them in their adventures again, even for a brief time". He never spoke of his own thoughts and desires, but he had been writing them down. She carefully put this book back on the desk, then saluted the empty chair.

"Perhaps it may be best if I pull back from you, My Lord. This means enough to you to be selfish for even a moment." She smiled sadly, then turned away from the desk, "Though I would miss you terribly if you were to leave. It... is not my place... to ask you to stay."

* * * 'Ah, Beq Lugg was right, I may have been overdoing it lately.' It had been days since he last left the Tower, and he felt it in his back as he paused on the stairs from the Quadrivium. He composed himself, and looked over to the nearby stalls thoughtfully. It gave him a moment's rest, but he realized he still hadn't decided which sort of treat to serve with tea. He enjoyed sweets, as did his friends, but perhaps a sandwich with tea would be a nice lunch.

"My Lord?"

"Ah! Yes, Bragi?" He turned to the Ronso that stood beside him. He'd been slightly startled by the sudden voice, but usually managed to keep himself fairly well-composed outside of the Tower.

Bragi gestured welcomingly, "You seemed lost in thought this afternoon. Is there aught I might assist with?" The Exarch looked a bit more thoughtful at that. The Ronso tilted his head a little.

"Actually, perhaps you could," he flicked his ears slightly, then explained, "Our Warriors of Darkness will be returning this afternoon. I was of a mind to discuss things over tea when they did, but I have been stuck on sweets or sandwiches as the proper accompaniment." He put his crystal hand to his chin; his expression gave a weight to such a trivial decision that Bragi felt unsure how to immediately respond. He did, however, come up with a suggestion, as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Perhaps a basket of various baked goods might be a good compromise...?"

"A basket," the Miqo'te trailed off, then looked up at the Ronso. His gaze drifted off to the side, to Hanji-Fae's bakery stall. His expression lightened, and he gave Bragi a thankful smile. "Ah! Of course! Thank you, Bragi." He fidgeted slightly, "Perhaps it was a bit silly of me to get stuck on such a decision."

"Nonsense, My Lord," the Ronso interrupted, "We, all of us, are grateful to them for the return of the night sky." He looked up to the blue crystal canopy, the clear blue sky was visible around the edges of it, but most of the city was protected from weather. "Even now, many of us worry over what we can offer them while they are here, and if it will be good enough." Bragi smiled reassuringly to the worried Exarch, "We were also extremely grateful to see you return safely with them."

A pang of guilt tightened his chest, "I was... grateful to return... with them."

"I admit, I hadn't expected a Mystel under that hood," Bragi took a breath to continue, but was interrupted by an Elven female's voice.

"Aha~! I've finally found you!"

The Exarch stiffened slightly, his ears stood up straight at the sudden voice from behind. He turned quickly, and barely suppressed a wince at the sudden movement.

"Katliss, why were you looking for me...?"

"Have you an answer for me yet, Lord?"

"Pray forgive me," the Exarch smiled apologetically, "I have been quite busy lately." Katliss sighed with a half smile, then shook her head.

"The Artisans of the Mean have completed some designs for the commemoration of the night sky's return, but you haven't given us an answer." The Elf smirked, then put a hand out to the side as if holding something, "Would you prefer to be on coin," she put her other hand out to the other side, "or an automaton?"

The Exarch sighed, then frowned a little, "It would hardly be fair to take that sort of credit for such a feat. I sincerely appreciate your intentions, but I would prefer neither option." He smiled reassuringly, "Perhaps you should prepare to help the Warriors of Darkness this evening. They shall be returning anon, and I really must gather something for them to eat when they arrive."

"They're coming back so soon? Of course we'll prepare anything they should require," Katliss smiled, despite being sad at the repeated rejection from the Exarch. "That's only the third time you've said no, though. I'm certain one of the designs will change your mind, My Lord." She gave a small wave, then hurried off to head back to the Crystalline Mean.

Bragi nodded after she left, "I'll spread the word through the Markets for you as well. Let them know if they need anything at all, they can browse and stock up here whenever they are able," he crossed his arms, "After all, it seems like you'll be speaking with them for a while if you're buying food for their return."

"A-Ah," the red-eyed Miqo'te nodded, then gave as reassuring a smile as he could after Katliss' fluster. He hurried off towards the Culinarian's shop, his back feeling slightly better than when he left. "My desk is not the most comfortable place for a nap... which just means I need to finish my research that much faster." He mumbled to himself, then smiled as he stopped in front of the counter. He decided on half and half, as per Bragi's suggestion, and added a box of tea he could brew back at the Tower. He had just the kettle for the perfect brew, one which he often used.

* * * Ice was the first to arrive through the portal in the Ocular; immediately behind him was his husband, Angel. The Warrior looked around at the empty room, noting how brilliantly the crystal walls shone. He smiled, then turned to make sure his husband had made it through okay. Angel had stepped through, then immediately moved aside to clear the way. The White Mage curled his tail a bit, happy at the thought of seeing their friend G'raha again after their time away from the First. He did frown a little at the empty Ocular, then turned his ears a bit to listen for a voice or familiar sound.

"Ah, we seem to be the first to arrive, he looked around the room a little, "Do you think we're a bit too early?" The tip of his tail flicked back and forth, thoughtfully, "Or did we miss them at Mor Dhona?"

Ice looked thoughtful in response, but didn't get a chance to respond, as Shoto stepped through the portal a moment later. Angel's ears perked, and he smiled at her arrival. Yuki, then Sumire, followed immediately after her; the three of them took in the surroundings of the Ocular for a moment. The female Miqo'te's eyes fell upon the two Keepers nearby. She immediately waved with so much energy that it brought her on her the tips of her toes; a moment later, she bounded over to them in excitement.

"Angel! Ice! I'm glad to see you both!" The female Seeker jumped and threw her arms around the dark-haired Keeper's shoulders. Angel's ears briefly pinned back in surprise, but he smiled and returned Shoto's hug a moment later. Ice just shook his head, "I see how it is. No love for me." He chuckled to himself as his tail wagged playfully behind him, "I'm just glad to see you are doing well."

"I am too, Shoto," Angel added. "We've been worried about you, but you seem to be feeling a bit better now."

Yuki couldn't hold back a smirk while she shook her head at the sight of their leader bounding off in such a way. "Well, it seems like she is in bright spirits at least," she said to Sumire, who was still at her side.

The purple-haired Miqo'te grinned at the Viera in response, "What's this? You showing concern over another person's well being in front of other people?" He teased, his tail flicked slightly.

"Come now!" Yuki immediately crossed her arms defensively in a pout, "I'm not that heartless. Is it so hard to believe that I would show concern for our friend?" Sumire just smiled, then patted her gently on the arm, "I jest! Mostly. C'mon, let's join the others." The two made their way over to the group as they all awaited the Exarch's arrival to the Ocular.

They would only wait another few moments before the doors to the Ocular swung open. The Exarch returned with Lyna. She carefully guided a small cart into the room with her. The red-haired Miqo'te smiled at his friends, though he said nothing just yet. Lyna stopped in the middle of the group, then made sure the cart was settled. On the top was the basket of half and half baked goods. The scent of sweets immediately drew Angel's attention to the basket. Lyna saluted, as the Exarch raised a hand.

"Thank you for the help, Lyna, I may have overdone it a little..."

"Nonsense, My Lord, it is my pleasure to assist. Though... the wonderful smell has made me want to go pick up something as well after my shift," she smiled to the Warriors, then saluted them as well. "Welcome back. We've missed you all. Pray call on me should you need anything." The Viis turned to hurry out. The Exarch watched as she closed the doors behind her. He didn't turn around immediately.

"I most certainly did overdo it," he glanced back over his shoulder, "I got delayed several times in the course of the day. I sincerely apologize that I was not here to greet you all." His ears flicked, and his guard relaxed slightly. A smile crossed his face as he turned further to gesture to the cart, "I wanted to make sure there was something to eat when you arrived. I wasn't... sure what might be best, but I thought the cart could serve as a table while we spoke." He stood, then fidgeted slightly, his tail fluffed a bit more than usual... though, that was really only noticeable to him against his own leg. It wasn't that he didn't have a topic to discuss; after all, he had asked Feo Ul to contact them about returning; it was more that there were a few topics to discuss, and he was trying to sort out a good starting point.

Ice simply smiled at the Exarch in response. It felt like it hadn't been that long ago when they ventured to the Grand Cosmos to meet Beq Lugg. There had been nothing much for it but to leave the Nu Mou and the Miqo'te to research on the soul; ways of preserving and transporting it, along with their memories.

"It's quite alright," the Warrior spoke to break the thoughtful silence that had fallen over the room. "I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we appreciate it." The Exarch blinked; the words helped to reset his train of thought, as well as relax him a little. He smiled back, then put a finger to his chin.

"First, I believe tea and snacks are in order. Please, take what you would like," he gestured to the cart. Yuki nodded to the suggestion, then tugged at Sumire's sleeve. The Seeker stood from his seat on the steps that he had just taken, and reluctantly followed the Viera over to the cart.

The Exarch pulled cups from the shelf below, and handed her one at a time as she poured tea for whoever would like some. She handed the filled cups to Sumire so she didn't have to turn around. Shoto happily accepted one, along with a danish, then moved back to be beside Angel. The White Mage sniffed at the sweet smell of her treat, then flicked his ears thoughtfully. Ice reached up to pat his husband's head, then headed over to the cart to pick something for them both.

Though everyone anticipated the Exarch's words, Yuki spoke first, "Any updates on our friends' return?"

Shoto paused, then looked up from her tea cup to hear the response. She had recently checked in with Tataru and Krile, and learned their bodies were still stable; for the moment; but the link between their souls and bodies was beginning to grow notably weaker.

"Yes," the Exarch nodded, "Beq Lugg and I are presently studying the principles underpinning memory transference and, I believe, nearing the requisite level of understanding, thanks to the Tower Library. Urianger and Y'shtola have also given input and clarity when the words began to blur from staring bells too long at the same pages," he flicked an ear, then tilted his head a bit. "It will definitely require my Allagan heritage if this is to stand a chance of being successful. The result will be a crystal vessel imbued with my essence."

"That sounds complicated," Sumire frowned as he held a second cup of tea for Ice to take. The Exarch nodded in response.

"It has proven... frustrating, to put it mildly. Practical trials of transference methods suited for use with the vessel," he thought for a moment, then finished his sentence, "have yet to yield... satisfactory results..." He found himself forcefully handed a cup of tea from Yuki. He blinked again, then gratefully took the tea, and smiled, "Though it may take some time yet, we are well on our way to a solution," he looked down to the tea in his cup, "And I swear that I shall not rest until one is found."

* * * Elsewhere in the Crystarium, far from this happy scene, a weakened shoebill flapped its wings as it came to a rest atop a high railing on the outer walls, its chest heaving for breath… An all-too-familiar shoebill, whose avian form was but a mask.

Hades felt like he was growing weaker by the second, but, at least in this smaller, bestial form, he could still fly. Though it was exhausting. By Zodiark, he hoped he was right, that they weren't already gone somehow, returned to the Source and lost to him forever. No, no, they were a sentimental lot, they must still be hanging around...

He mustered all the strength left in his wings for a short upward flight, and this time came to rest much closer to the Crystal Tower itself... good, a perfect vantage point, one which let him see most of the Crystarium without much effort.

A pity that, unless his vision were failing him (how weak would he become, severed from his wholeness as he was?!), he could spy neither hide nor hair of them in the city's wide expanse. Cursing mentally, the bird then turned his attention towards the Tower itself, towards some method of egress... squinting, he spied one of many small air shafts higher up on the tower. And here was one he could easily get through…! Perfect.

The bird's eyes narrowed as he opened his wings once more, rising into the air, then once he was in position, angled himself for a slow dive, and drifted almost indolently downward towards and into the air shaft, emerging inside the tower proper, into the presence of the blue and gold spiral staircase that snaked its way through the entire tower.

It felt like forever since he had visited here, but still, the layout was familiar enough. He spotted another ventilation shaft as he flew over the stairs. If he remembered everything correctly, it should lead to the Ocular.

Yes. Perhaps if he spied on the Exarch, he could find the adventurers he sought.

The Shoebill flapped hard and dove into this second shaft, but fumbled on his landing near the end of it, wobbling as he came to a full rest and ruffling his feathers. He waddled slowly towards the sharp drop off that led into the Ocular. Stopping at the edge, he looked down through the beams of the chandelier, taking in the sight of several familiar figures gathered below...

They were all standing near each other, save for the red and white-haired Miqo'te in his ridiculous robes, still wearing that great, ornamented staff. The Allagan-blooded fool they called the Crystal Exarch; "G'raha Tia", the adventurers had named him...? Oh, he recalled that one well enough...his power over the Crystal Tower and his enigmatic nature had been the most vexing mystery the former Ascian had had for a time.

Now the shoebill turned his attention to the others standing around the Exarch. His eyes moved over to the two near the cart. A white haired Viera and a purple haired Miqo'te; if he recalled correctly, they went by the names Yuki and Sumire. He recognized the two male Miqo'te Keepers as well; he watched as Ice walked over to Angel with tea cups. They had all been present towards the journey to slay the Lightwardens. However, it was the one enjoying her tea beside Angel that had the most familiar presence; the one who'd bedeviled him from the beginning. The one who'd always made him feel at odds with himself, always made him question the works of his own hands.

The one who had dealt the final blow, pierced through his heart and struck him down amidst the ruins of Amaurot.

The one that had ended his... suffering.

Shoto.

She was the one whose shard was so damnably close to...

The shoebill, knowing the darkness of the ceiling and its shadows would hide him, remained silent, watching them all.

Waiting...

* * * 'What was that...?'

Before the conversation could continue, the Exarch paused, then looked to the door. He could tell someone or something had entered the Ocular, as he and Beq Lugg had made a Ward to protect their research, and the vessels, within the Umbilicus. His ruby eyes focused, then quickly scanned the room; he could find nothing amiss. He put his finger to his chin and sat his half-drank cup of tea down on the cart.

'That's odd... I was certain...'

"G'raha?" Angel's worried voice broke the silence. He had noticed the Exarch's distraction, "Is everything okay?"

The distracted Miqo'te's ear flicked at his name, spoken by his friend. He nodded as he quickly turned his attention back to the group.

"Everything's fine," he smiled to reassure them; in fact, to make a point of it being fine, he picked his cup up again, then drank a bit more. Once he placed the cup back on the saucer he gestured slightly, "In fact, I would ask a favor of you. There is still much to be done here on the First since the return of the night sky. This world still needs help to get back on track."

Ice beamed as he refilled Angel's cup; he made sure to stir in extra sugar, then took it and a glazed donut back to his husband. Angel nodded happily, as he took the refilled tea and the donut. Ice looked back to the Exarch.

"You know you can count us in!" Angel simply nodded along with a soft smile as he agreed, then nipped some of his donut.

Sumire chimed in as well, "You have my lance too, G'raha!" He smiled as he sat his empty cup down. Yuki immediately tugged his ear at his informal tone. "Er. Right, I forgot," he rubbed his ear, blushed, then looked to the Viera, apologetically. The Exarch blinked, confused; he didn't mind so much when they were alone here, but also didn't want to be too picky with what his friends could call him. Unlike the others, however, Sumire tended to forget where he was, and had confused quite a few people along the way by referring to the Exarch by his name. He had agreed to try to stay consistent with 'Exarch' so he wouldn't confuse anyone... of course, that was mainly between himself and Yuki for now.

"What he means is that you have our support as well." Yuki nodded, then crossed her arms over her chest; one hand still holding her tea cup. The Exarch brought up a hand to conceal a chuckle at the interaction between the two.

He smiled, then nodded, "I appreciate the gesture." "I see I'm the last to get a say in," Shoto folded her arms, then smiled at the Exarch, "but you know that I am also in full support wherever I'm needed."

"Despite knowing that you would help, it nevertheless heartens me to hear your reassurances," the Exarch smiled, a bit of relief crossed his face. "Thank you, my friends. Let us begin, then." He looked to each of them and took a breath to settle his thoughts. "As you are all aware, the Scions have not been idle either. Alphinaud has been helping Chai-Nuzz in Eulmore. Urianger and Y'shtola have been off doing some research of their own and sending me reports on what they've found interesting. Thancred and Ryne have mostly been helping to monitor and maintain Eden since you restored the elements to The Empty." He looked to the Miqo'te couple, "Angel, Ice, I'd like you two to travel to Amh Araeng." The two nodded in response. The Exarch continued his assignment, "First, check-in with our contact in Mord Souq to see if there are any new developments. Thancred, Ryne, and Gaia may also be around if there have been. If they aren't there, then rendezvous with Alisaie at Journey's End to see how things are progressing. Alisaie has been working with Beq Lugg to administer treatments to those affected by the Sin Eaters," he blinked and stopped, then flicked his ears back slightly as he realized what he'd just said, "Ah! That's right. They were going to check in on Alisaie's progress today. That must be where they went..."

There was a brief moment of silence before Shoto spoke, "Exarch?"

"Ah! Right," he looked over to the female Miqo'te after she drew his attention, "Shoto, I would like for you, Yuki, and Sumire to travel to Eulmore and rendezvous with Alphinaud. Once you've checked in with him, I'd like for you to head onward to the Tempest and check in with our Ondo friends regarding Emet-Selch's recreation of Amaurot."

"Is something happening to it?" Yuki asked, as she put aside her empty cup. The red-haired Miqo'te shook his head slightly, a concerned look crossed his face.

"No, and that's what concerns me."

"I don't get it," Sumire tilted his head.

The Exarch crossed his arms, "With Emet-Selch's defeat, we assumed that the magicks used to keep it around would begin to fade. Yet, upon a recent scrying, I noticed there was no sign of change. The area shows no sign of weakening as expected, though, for a blessing, it does not seem to be gaining in aetheric density nor expanding. I'd like you to see if the Ondo have noticed anything strange in the area as of late."

Yuki nodded, "Understood," the Viera shifted her weight from one foot to the other. Shoto's hands curled tighter around her teacup as she continued to listen to the discussion and began to think on the Exarch's words. That strange ache in her chest returned at the mention of Emet-Selch. Her eyes focused on the swirl of liquid in her tea cup. Things had been different, ever since Ardbert's soul had rejoined with her. She'd noticed strange things... yet she hadn't wanted to tell anyone else; it felt silly. They reminded her of things they had learned about in Amaurot from the shades; Creation Magic.

Angel seemed similarly focused on the remaining part of his donut; almost to the exclusion of all else. Ice and Sumire both seemed equally thoughtful, yet not as intensely so as Shoto and Angel were. Yuki looked around to the others as she thought about everything so far. She turned back to the Exarch and broke the thoughtful silence first.

"Have you asked Urianger or Y'shtola their opinions?"

"I have," he nodded, "I contacted Y'shtola to ask for her advice on the matter, and she believes she may have new information from some recently rediscovered Ronkan ruins, but would like a bit more time to speak with Urianger and interpret what she and the Viis of Rak'tika found." He looked to the mirror on the back wall, "While she was here, she mentioned that she could see another presence of Amaurotine ruins; they were similar to the ruins that make up the Ondo Cups. It was farther into the depths; farther even than recreation of Amaurot." He fidgeted slightly, then flicked one ear, "While I am able to see a general view of the area, I have yet to be able to focus under the water, and I'm afraid that it's too far from the Tower for me to investigate. It was only due to Y'shtola's vision that we found it at all."

"New ruins...?" Ice's eyes went wide at the mention of more ruins, farther out than Amaurot. He shifted to step forward excitedly, and broke Angel's focus on his donut, "Do you think they might lead to more information on the Ancients like the shades and what we learned in Akadaemia Anyder?"

Angel looked up to his husband with a confused blink. Ice's question snapped Shoto's attention back from her thoughts; perhaps, this would be a good chance to learn more? Maybe she could even find some answers to her own questions.

The Exarch nodded to Ice in return, "It's distinctly possible. Y'shtola has plans to arrive in Eulmore as well, as she is quite interested in these new ruins herself. Once there, you can all journey forth together." He paused, then looked among the group a bit sadly, "Would that I could join you in exploring, alas, I must continue my trials here if we are to send everyone home safely."

* * * The shoebill had been straining to listen to the group below, moving from foot to foot impatiently. Yes, yes, all kinds of assignments and adventures for the intrepid Warriors of Light and Darkness, and their companions. This shard dearly needed "repairs", perhaps more than most others; none of this was new or particularly interesting, and none of it provided a moment he might dramatically emerge and demand information in.

Though... Amaurot. That mention struck a chord, all too sharply, and kept his gaze focused on Shoto. Kept it so focused on Shoto that he almost didn't notice that the image of her blurred with his waning consciousness. Damn it all. Even though he had taken on this smaller form, his strength continued to leave him; the injuries he'd sustained now caused him pain even as a bird. He struggled to remain standing... and he definitely wasn't going to keep his balance on this ledge.

Not now, he thought, but it was no use--he teetered over as he made a small squawk! noise. A rush of wind moved against his feathers. He was falling... falling down to the floor below.

4 notes · View notes